Posted by Maureen Madore on February 6, 2006

Q: I'm scared to death of spiders. How is it that they seem to materialize out of nowhere? We have a l-yr old house, well sealed, it's winter and the windows are all closed — how on earth does a spider appear in the middle of the living room as if it just landed from outer space?? How do I make sure that they DON'T MATERIALIZE AT ALL??

State: Ontario

A: You're not alone, a lot of people fear spiders. I'm sure you realize they really aren't going to hurt you, but that doesn't necessarily make you feel any better. Although your home is new and no doubt well sealed, as you mention, spiders often move about when they're young and quite small and can get into all kinds of tight places. In fact, many spiders are able to balloon - throw out a silk thread that the wind can catch and carry them aloft for hundreds of miles. So, our homes are bombarded all summer with tiny spiders and a few accidently make it into our homes - they'd much prefer to be outside. You probably will never be able to keep them all out and you'll always be able to find one or two here and there. I always make a point of putting them outside and you can do the same. Take a broom, get the spider on the end and then take it outside and shake it. This usually works and you'll be far enough away from the spider to ensure you never touch it. Sorry, but this is the best I can recommend.

John Wiessinger ( February 7, 2006)